Syria

Tartus is a less-visited city in Syria compared to famous places like Aleppo or Palmyra. It is however still worth traveling to this coastline city to discover its striking Medieval heritage. Tartus can also be a good starting point for day-trips to nearby castles.

The most important monument is the church of Our Lady of Tortosa with dimensions of 41m*34,5 metres right in the middle of the fortified town. This church belongs to the most important historic monuments of the Crusader period since it is a typical example of how Byzantine culture influenced Latin architecture. Its style is mostly Gothic, Gothic art influence appears in the decoration of the capitals and columns. Since the church is located close to the city walls, it had to be fortified heavily to withold attacks. Thus four circular towers were attached to the building. Each tower could be used both as a storage room and for defense purpose as well.